Hi Freshmen!

Winter break is almost here! I for one am so excited to relax, spend time with family and play Dress to Impress. The biggest question that may be plaguing you when going into winter break is: How do I balance being productive and taking time for myself?

If you are considering this question- never fear! I have three winter breaks under my belt, and some advice to share. While you might have nothing due over break, you’ll still have things to do, but with deadlines being after break, it can be difficult to have motivation to do them. Here is a step-by-step guide to make sure you are taking time for yourself, while having some time for homework.

• Mark down everything you have to/want to do over break before break starts, so you’re not scrambling to remember when you’re out of school.
• Forget about that list for a week.

I’m not kidding! For the first week of break, spend time doing something you enjoy, spending time with family, celebrating the holidays, and relaxing. This is your time to do what you want, and not worry about school. You have earned this break, the first part of Freshman year is always super difficult, so don’t withhold your reward of a break from yourself.

• On the Monday of the week of New Year’s Eve, take a look at that list.

See what it is that you have to complete before the end of break, and get working!

• In order to still prioritize yourself, if you can limit work to just one or two things a day, that will be beneficial.

Don’t overwork yourself even if you have work. This is a long break, so there might be days you are bored, or want something to do, in which case this schedule is perfect for you! Just a few things a day to fill up some time and feel productive will put you in a great place for returning to school, and the upcoming finals.

Following these steps will put you in a great position to get some things done over break, while not sacrificing the things you love. The most important thing to remember (and I know I’m repeating myself), is that this is a break. Don’t feel guilty about being lazy and having fun, that’s what break is for!

Happy holidays, and I’ll see you in the new year!

Best,

Senior